Permitting, Codes & Projects

Residential Construction Projects

The content below is to outline general information of what is expected when submitting Plans to Delta Township for securing a Permit for Residential Construction

What do I need to submit to secure a Permit for RESIDENTIAL Construction?

Plans and other construction documents for detached one and two family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures, shall be designed under the provisions of the Michigan Residential Code.

There are several types of construction where Permits are required. Some examples are:

Residential Additions – You must submit complete Plans of what you intend to build, and/or modify. The plans must be comprehensive so the Building Official can evaluate materials, and the type of construction as it relates to current Building Codes.

Residential New Single Family Homes – You must submit complete Plans of what you intend to build. The plans must include a Floor Plan, cross section, and foundation plan. The plans must be comprehensive so the Building Official can evaluate materials, and the type of construction as it relates to current Building Codes.

Re-Roofing – Permits must be secured for complete, or partial re-roofing of any Residence. The Building Official will inspect the project after tear-off, and when the job is done.

Residential Decks – Permits must be secured for any permanent deck construction. The Building Official will inspect the project when the foundation [holes] are dug, and when the job is done.

Swimming Pools – Permits must be secured for any Pool, both above and in-ground. Inspections are completed for type of construction, and safety reasons.

Preparation of Plans and Submission

The plans and other construction documents have to be prepared by or under the direct supervision of a registered design professional when required by the Michigan Residential Code. Please call or e-mail for more information on this provision.

Complete Plans, and other construction documents, for Residential Projects should submit an electronic copy of plans [paper copies are NOT needed].

Plans that come under the scope of the Michigan Residential Code take at least one week to review, however, the size of the Project will determine the amount of time required. Plan review letters are sent to the applicant when necessary. Please see the Residential FAQ link for more information.

Permit Applications for Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical must also be submitted for jobs where any of trades are involved. If your project includes altering, or expanded any of these trades, a Permit must be secured for the work.

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMIT CHECKLIST - Ver. Apr2016

BUILDERS LICENSE

Any person offering to do work where the fee is greater than $600, including labor and materials, must have a license from the State of Michigan. They also must apply for the permit.

Homeowners can apply for building permits without having a license.

BUILDERS REQUIRMENTS

Builder must show current license at time of application

Signature of license holder or qualifying officer must be included on all permit applications

License number and date of expiration must be included on all permit applications

Submit a Mechanical Heating and Cooling form – calculation per ACCA Manual J

SITE PLAN

All construction projects that include an expansion to the footprint of the building require a Site Plan. A Site Plan must include a drawing of the property that shows the location of the existing structures [if any], the sizes, the dimensions and the distances of the structures from the property lines and each other. The Township Planning Department must approve all projects before a Building Permit will be issued. The Planning Department regulates the size of the lot and the structure, as well as the distances from the property lines. Regulations vary between each Zoning district. If you have questions, call the Planning Department at 517-323-8560.

SIDEWALK PERMIT APPLICATIONS

Applications for new homes must include a Sidewalk Permit. This application must be submitted with the Building Permit Application. No fee is paid, but an inspection of the proposed sidewalk area must be approved prior to pouring concrete. Specifications on sidewalk requirements may be obtained from the Engineering Division. If you have questions or are in need of an Inspection call the Engineering Division at 517-323-8540.

SEPTIC AND WELL PERMITS

Homes that are NOT on the public water and sewer system must have approved septic and well water systems. Permits for septic and well water are issued by the Eaton County Health Department. Permits for both septic and well must be submitted along with the Building Permit Application. The Eaton County Health Department can be contacted at 517-543-2430.

EXPANSION/ADDITIONS TO RESIDENCE ON SEPTIC AND WELL SYSTEMS

EXPANSION OR CONSTRUCTION OF ACCESSORY BUILDINGS ON SEPTIC & WELL SYSTEMS

DEMOLITION OF RESIDENCE/STRUCTURES ON SEPTIC AND WELL SYSTEMS

The Eaton County Health Department must approve the site prior to the construction and the demolition of buildings that are serviced by a septic and drain field system. At time of demolition, all wells and septic tanks must be abandoned properly. Contact the Eaton County Health Department at 517-543-2430.

DRIVEWAY PERMIT

New homes require a driveway permit when they are built on a public road. The driveway permit must be submitted with the Building Permit Application. The driveway permit is issued by the Eaton County Road Commission. Call 1-877-883-2866, or 517-543-1630.

BUILDING PLANS

Building Plans should be submitted to the Building Inspector electronically; either on cd, or email a pdf. The e-mail address is mleach@deltami.gov. The Builder must supply a copy of the approved print at the job site.

Note: Building plans must be drawn to scale and have all necessary dimensions, including a floor plan of all levels, a cross section of all conditions, elevations, beam sizes, truss drawings from fabricator, window dimensions, and specifications on any engineered structural product.

WATER AND SEWER

Homes that are being built in an area with public water and sewer must pay capital charges prior to connecting to Township utilities. The Water and Sewer capital charges, paid to the Building Division, do not include the cost of installation.

Sewer: The Sewer connection must be performed by a licensed drain layer that is registered with the Delta Township Building Division. Permits are also obtained in the Building Division.

Water: The Water connection is done by the Township Utility Department. Water fees must be paid prior to connection. To schedule a connection call the Utility Department at 517-323-8570.

PLUMBING, MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL PERMITS

Delta Township enforces the Michigan Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Codes. Permits for these trades are applied for in the Building Division. All contractors must be licensed by the State of Michigan, and register their licenses with the Township Building Division.

Thinking about Building a New Home in Delta Township?

If you are Building a new Single Family home, there are several permits that need to be obtained. This is a list of the Permit types either the Homeowner, or Contractor must secure.

It is very important that permits are secured before the work is performed. various inspections need to be completed during the construction process, and failed inspections will delay the construction timeline.

What Permits do I need for Building a New Home?

Building Permit ph 517-323-8530

Obtained from the Delta Township Building Division

Submit Plans to mleach@deltami.gov

Trade Permits ph 517-323-8530

Electrical, Plumbing, & Mechanical Permits are obtained from the Delta Township Building Division

Zoning Certificate ph 517-323-8560

Obtained from Delta Twp Planning Division

Driveway Permit ph 877-883-2866

Obtained from Eaton County Road Commission

Soil Erosion Permit ph 517-543-3809

Obtained from the Eaton County Drain Office

Storm Sewer Permit ph 517-323-8530

Obtained from the Delta Twp Building Division

Sanitary Sewer Permit ph 517-323-8530

Obtained from the Delta Twp Building Division

Sidewalk Permit ph 517-323-8530

Obtained from the Delta Twp Building Division

Thinking about Building a new Commercial or Industrial Building in Delta Township?

If you are Building a new Commercial or Industrial Building there are several permits that need to be obtained.

Depending on the Project scale, there are several steps in the process. This is a guideline to help you navigate through the system and help answer your questions.

If you have additional questions, please call the Economic Development Coordinator, or the Community Development Department for assistance.

What Permits do I need for Building a New Commercial or Industrial Building?

Plans and other construction documents for building projects are required by the State of Michigan to be sealed by an architect or engineer licensed to practice in the State of Michigan.

Planning and Zoning:

One of the first steps in the process is to contact the Planning and Zoning Division [517-323-8560] to discuss your project. Several considerations should be discussed early on in the process to alleviate potential future problems. Site plans should be submitted so the Department can evaluate the over-all project and begin to verify requirements, such as zoning, parking requirements, access roads, fire lanes, property line setbacks, easements, and several other items.

Sewer and Water Capital Charges:

When a new building is constructed and hooked up to the Public Water and Sewer System a “Capital Charge” must be charged. The fee is based on the use of the property. Please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530 to obtain the estimated fee.

Plan Submission: Plans and other construction documents for Commercial or Industrial Projects should be submitted – 1 hard copy and 1 electronic copy.

Building Permits – Commercial Projects

Getting Started

For Commercial and Industrial Projects, a separate permit is needed for all Building projects.

Depending on the scope of work, your project will likely require separate Plumbing, Electrical, and Mechanical permits. These permits must be secured by the sub-contractors prior to performing any work on the site.

If you are operating your business in a Commercial or Industrial structure, only a licensed contractor may secure permits and perform the Building related work – even for small projects.

Project/Permitting Flow Chart:

Hiring a contractor

All contractors working within the State of Michigan must be licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Only Contractors with current licenses, in good standing, are allowed to work in Delta Township.

Project and Fees

You will be asked to describe the scope of work proposed and to provide a detailed list of all work you will be performing. If you have questions, please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530.

The Building Permit fees are based on the scope of work of your Project. The fee is based on the actual value of the construction. The fees are automatically calculated on the application [fillable form] as you fill it out.

Applying For My Building Permit

Permit Applications can be filed using our automated online program at www.deltami.gov, or using a paper form available online. All Building Permits require a Plan Review process. Once approved, the issued permit will be emailed/mailed to you.

Plan Review Process

Building Permits require a plan review; this generally takes 5 working days, however, this varies depending on the Project Scope. To assure the Project goes as smooth as possible, we require the following information:

Complete Building Plans, drawn to scale

Contain definitions if legends are used

Nature, and extent, of the work proposed

The plans shall show, in detail that they will conform to the applicable Code rules, requirements, ordinances, and regulations.

If you are unsure whether your project requires “plan review,” please call the office for clarification.

Building Plan Submission

These Plans need to be specific and include all details necessary to determine building materials, specifications, and sizes. The plans should be emailed to the Building Official at mleach@deltami.gov

Typical plans include:

Site plan

Floor plans

Elevation views

Cross section and detail drawings

Your plans must clearly show all the work you intend to do on the building as well as the existing conditions. Existing conditions and new construction must be clearly delineated. Plans must also show where the building sits on your property in relationship to property lines and other buildings on the site.

Inspections

Inspections can be scheduled either online at deltami.gov, or by calling the Building Division Office. Depending on your Project, several inspections could be required for the work.

Electrical Permits – Commercial Projects

Getting Started

For Commercial and Industrial Projects, a separate permit is needed for all electrical projects.

If you are operating your business in a Commercial or Industrial structure, only a licensed contractor may secure permits and perform the Electrical work – even for small projects.

Hiring a contractor

All contractors working within the State of Michigan must be licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Only Contractors with current licenses, in good standing, are allowed to work in Delta Township.

Project and Fees

You will be asked to describe the scope of work proposed and to provide a detailed list of all Electrical work you will be performing. If you have questions, please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530.

The fees for your Electrical Permit are based on the scope of work of your Project. The individual fees are listed on the Delta Township Permit Application.

Plan Review Process

Electrical permits requiring plan review will generally be reviewed and issued within ten working days, however, this varies depending on the Project Scope. To assure the Project goes as smooth as possible, we require the following information:

Complete Electrical Plans, drawn to scale

Contain definitions if legends are used

Nature, and extent, of the work proposed

The plans shall show, in detail that they will conform to the applicable Electrical Code rules, requirements, ordinances, and regulations.

If you are unsure whether your project requires “plan review,” please call the office for clarification.

Applying For My Electrical Permit

Permit Applications can be filed using our automated online program at www.deltami.gov, or using a paper form available online. For Commercial and Industrial Projects Electrical Plans are required. Electrical permits not requiring plan review are generally issued the same day the Permit Application is received. A copy of the issued permit will be emailed/mailed to you.

Inspections

Inspections can be scheduled either online at deltami.gov, or by calling the Building Division Office. Depending on your Project, several inspections could be required for the work.

Plumbing Permits – Commercial Projects

Getting Started

For Commercial and Industrial Projects, a separate permit is needed for all Plumbing projects.

If you are operating your business in a Commercial or Industrial structure, only a licensed contractor may secure permits and perform the Plumbing work – even for small projects.

Hiring a contractor

All contractors working within the State of Michigan must be licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Only Contractors with current licenses, in good standing, are allowed to work in Delta Township.

Project and Fees

You will be asked to describe the scope of work proposed and to provide a detailed list of all Plumbing work you will be performing. If you have questions, please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530.

The fees for your Plumbing Permit are based on the scope of work of your Project. The individual fees are listed on the Delta Township Permit Application.

Applying For My Plumbing Permit

Permit Applications can be filed using our automated online program at www.deltami.gov, or using a paper form available online. For Commercial and Industrial Projects Plumbing Plans are required. Plumbing permits not requiring plan review are generally issued the same day the Permit Application is received. A copy of the issued permit will be emailed/mailed to you.

Plan Review Process

Plumbing permits requiring plan review will generally be reviewed and issued within ten working days, however, this varies depending on the Project Scope. To assure the Project goes as smooth as possible, we require the following information:

A complete Plumbing Plan, drawn to scale showing the location of all plumbing fixtures, and the location of drains.

Site plan showing the following information:

Size, location, depth of burial, including the type of the material of the storm/sanitary sewer

Size, location, water pressure, depth of burial and type of material of the water line

A drawing showing the size and type of material for the drainage and venting systems, storm water, hot and cold water piping.

A copy of the specifications describing the fixtures, the appliances, the roof drains and other appurtenances supplied

If you are unsure whether your project requires “plan review,” please call the office for clarification.

Inspections

Inspections can be scheduled either online at deltami.gov, or by calling the Building Division Office.

Depending on your Project, several inspections could be required for the work

Mechanical Permits – Commercial Projects

Getting Started

For Commercial and Industrial Projects, a separate permit is needed for all Mechanical projects.

If you are operating your business in a Commercial or Industrial structure, only a licensed contractor may secure permits and perform the Mechanical work – even for small projects.

Hiring a contractor

All contractors working within the State of Michigan must be licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Only Contractors with current licenses, in good standing, are allowed to work in Delta Township.

Project and Fees

You will be asked to describe the scope of work proposed and to provide a detailed list of all Mechanical work you will be performing. If you have questions, please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530.

The fees for your Mechanical Permit are based on the scope of work of your Project. The individual fees are listed on the Delta Township Permit Application.

Applying For My Mechanical Permit

Permit Applications can be filed using our automated online program at www.deltami.gov, or using a paper form available online. For Commercial and Industrial Projects Plumbing Plans are required. Plumbing permits not requiring plan review are generally issued the same day the Permit Application is received. A copy of the issued permit will be emailed/mailed to you.

Plan Review Process

Mechanical permits requiring plan review will generally be reviewed and issued within ten working days, however, this varies depending on the Project Scope. To assure the Project goes as smooth as possible, we require a complete Mechanical Plan, drawn to scale showing the location of all fixtures and a full plan detail.

If you are unsure whether your project requires “plan review,” please call the office for clarification.

Inspections

Inspections can be scheduled either online at deltami.gov, or by calling the Building Division Office.

What does the Fire Department Require to be submitted for Commercial Projects?

General

All plans MUST be submitted electronically (approved under 2012 IFC 105.4.2).

Permits for fire alarm and fire suppression systems must be approved through the plan review process BEFORE the permit is issued (2012 IFC 105.4.2.1).

Site Plans (2012 IFC 501.3)

Width of all fire lanes and access

Location of all fire hydrants, Post Indicating Valves and Fire

Department Connections

Location of approved signage for all fire lanes and fire hydrants

Distances around a structure from the nearest access points of the approved fire lanes (must be less than 300 feet: 2012 IFC 503.1.1)

Data and specification sheets of the fire lane construction including supported weight

Building Plans (2012 IFC 105.4.1)

Complete floor plans

Life safety plan sheet to include

Measurement of at least 2 egress travel distances from the 2 most remote and opposite points

Code table to include but not limited to occupancy classification, building data, allowable height and building area, automatic fire alarm and sprinkler systems, occupancy load calculations, number of exits, exit width, and maximum travel distance

Manufactures data and specification sheets showing flame spread and smoke development index and testing standard for all interior finishing (including all floor, wall, and ceiling coverings and any tarps, curtains, etc.)

Inspectors are normally available for inspections within 24 hours of notification. The inspectors are equipped with the latest technology in communication and field computer resources to track permit activity. Delta Township prides itself in a cooperative approach to construction regulation.

FAQs

Homeowner/Contractor Frequently Asked Questions

About Permits

1. What types of work require the need to obtain a permit [such as a Building, Mechanical, Plumbing, or Electrical] when doing work inside my house?

This is NOT an all-inclusive list, however, it covers the most common questions…

· A permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or demolish any building, or part thereof.

· All new construction work requires a building permit.

· All existing construction work, if altering the original building, requires a building permit.

· The following repairs/replacement projects ALWAYS require a permit:

a. Water heater change out

b. A/C or Furnace replacement

c. Generator Installation

d. Re-Roofing home

e. Tub/shower replacement

f. Electrical service change out/repair

g. Window/door replacement if opening sizes are altered

h. All repairs due to a fire

2. Why do I need to obtain a permit – what is the benefit to me as a homeowner?

Along with it being a legal requirement, a Permit is beneficial for several reasons:

b) When a Building Permit Application, and Building Plans, are submitted to the Building Division, they are reviewed to see that it meets established building codes.

c) The review and approval process allows problems to be identified and corrected before the work is performed.

d) During the process of submitting a permit, a contractor’s licensing and insurance are verified

e) The selling of the property could be delayed when non-­permitted work is discovered.

f) Work completed without permits and/or inspections is deemed a violation on the property.

3. Can the homeowner apply for my own permit, or must I have a license?

Yes, you can obtain your own permit but it must be understood you are assuming all liability for the work performed. The same inspections and rules apply.

4. How much does a permit cost?

The cost varies based on the permit type and value of the project.

5. When do I pay the fee for the permit?

Permit Fees must be paid, prior to Issuance, or any inspections being requested.

6. How long does it take to get a Building Permit?

If everything is correct, a building permit for additions/alterations can be obtained within 7 working days. If it’s a ‘large scale’ project, it may take 30-60 days. Permits for Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing, can generally be obtained immediately.

7. How can I check the progress of a permit application?

To check on the status of a pending permit application please call 517-323-8530.

8. Can I obtain Permit Applications online?

Yes, you can, and you have a couple options. You can either apply for the Permit using our On-line Program, or fill out and return the ‘hard-copy’ ‘pdf’ permit application.

9. Can I start work when I submit a permit application or does it first need to be approved?

No. Work can NOT begin until the Permit has been secured.

10. How much time do I have to get the work done once a permit is issued?

Your Permit will expire and become void if work is not started, and an inspection requested, within 180 days from the date issued. The permit will also expire if no inspections are requested for 180 days after the initial inspection.

11. How do I find out if all of the required inspections have been approved?

There are a few ways to find out. If you have applied for your Inspection using our online system, you will automatically receive an email with the results as soon as they are recorded in the program. You can also always go online to see the results of any inspection. Lastly, you can call the office for the status.

12. How do I find out if I have any expired permits on my property?

You can always go online to see the results of any inspection that has been done on your property. If there are expired Permits, they will show there.

13. Can you help me with hiring a good Contractor?

Although we do not give out Contractor recommendations, we do believe it is very important to check:

· Does the contractor have a valid license?

· Can they provide recent references?

· Does this Contractor have expired permits on file with Delta Township?

· Does the Contractor provide a warranty?

· Lastly, we recommend that you verify all Township inpections have been approved and that you are satisfied with the work before making final payment to a contractor.

14. Where is the Building Division located and what are the hours of operation?

The Delta Township Building Division is located at 7710 W Saginaw Hwy, Lansing MI, 48917. Our office hours are weekdays from 8am to ­ 5pm.

15. My project is complete. How do I get my certificate of occupancy?

Upon completion, and Final Inspection by the Building Official a Certificate of Occupancy will be sent to you.

16. Can a decision by the Building Official be appealed?

Yes. You can fill out the “appeal form” that is available online.

17. Who is responsible for calling in an inspection when work is ready? The permit holder or his/her agent.

Either party can call for an inspection, however we believe it is most efficient for the Homeowner to call for Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical Inspections, and for the Contract to call for Building Permits.

Online Permitting

AccessMyGov offers users the ability to apply for, check the status of, pay for, and print Delta Township Permits as well as schedule inspections, all online without having to call or come into Township Hall.

The 2015 Michigan Residential Code

The Michigan Residential Code shall apply to detached one and two family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures.

The 2015 Michigan Building Code

The 2015 Michigan Building Code shall apply to all projects that do not come under the scope of the 2015 Michigan Residential Code.

The 2015 Michigan Rehabilitation Code for Existing Buildings

Incorporating the International existing Building Code, 2009

The 2006 International Property Maintenance Code

Property maintenance with local amendments.

The 2014 Michigan Electrical Code (with Michigan part 8 amendments)

This code is comprised of the 2014 National Electrical Code with Michigan Part-8 Amendments effective on June 18, 2015. The 2014 Michigan Electrical Code covers everything other than 1-2 Family Dwellings. 1-2 Family Dwellings are covered under the Michigan Residential Code Adoption [version 2015].

The 2015 Michigan Plumbing Code

The design and installation of plumbing systems, including sanitary and storm drainage, sanitary facilities, medical gas systems, water supplies, storm water and sewage disposal in buildings, shall comply with the requirements of the 2015 Michigan Plumbing Code.

Plumbing facilities for detached one and two family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures, shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the Michigan Residential Code.

The 2015 Michigan Mechanical Code

The Michigan Mechanical Code regulates the design, installation, maintenance, alteration, and inspection of mechanical systems that are permanently installed and utilized to provide control of environmental conditions and related processes within buildings. The Michigan Mechanical Code shall also regulate the mechanical systems, system components, equipment and appliances specifically addressed in the code.

Mechanical systems within detached one and two family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures, shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the Michigan Residential Code.

The 2015 International Fire Code with local amendments

The purpose of the Fire Code is to establish the minimum requirements consistent with nationally recognized good practice for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures and premises.

Plan review and inspection of fire sprinklers, and related systems are performed by the Fire Marshall / Mechanical Inspector’s office.